Hey,
I can relate to your boyfriends problem, it is so painful and really hard to get rid of. I thought he might try some natural anti inflammatory's and see if they help. There is a product that has turmeric, boswellia and bromelain combined. You can find it a most health food stores. I have had problems with my left arm for several years. My TE has turned into something bigger and badder and I'm facing surgery in 3 weeks. My xray shows damage to the bone and I'm not sure how I did this but I'm hoping the problem will be fixed. Good luck. Gayle